Differences in Rest, Emotion, and Arousal Modulation in Youth
Probing the Role of Sensory Regulation in Sleep Health and Emotion Dysregulation for Autistic Youth
University of Pittsburgh
60 participants
May 1, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
The goal of this study is to examine the relationship between sensory responsivity, bedtime arousal levels, sleep disturbances, and daytime emotion dysregulation for autistic children (ages 6-10). In a subset of children with elevated sensory responsivity, a sensory-based bedtime manipulation targeting bedtime arousal levels will be tested.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria5
- Youth between the ages of 6 and 10 years old
- Caregiver-reported autism diagnosis and >11 on Social Communication Questionnaire
- Caregiver-reported bedtime resistance (>12 on Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire-Autism; Sleep Initiation subscale - 3-point scale, 6 questions)
- Caregiver willing to participate in all bedtimes during study
- Stable medication use (e.g., no changes within 2 weeks)
Exclusion Criteria4
- Participants will be excluded if they do not understand English or are unable to travel to the lab (Pittsburgh, PA).
- Concurrent diagnosis of sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or major psychiatric disorder (e.g., major depression, bipolar).
- Unstable medication use (dose or timing).
- Current behavioral treatment for sleep disorder
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Interventions
The Power Down is a bedtime manipulation protocol targeting elevated arousal level at bedtime due to a hypothesized effect of sensory over-responsivity (a common experience for autistic children). The Power Down incorporates sensory-based input (caregiver massage) to support nervous system regulation prior to attempting sleep onset. Participants (caregivers and their child) will be educated in the Power Down protocol and data collection methods for the 2 week intervention trial. Caregivers will lead a nightly gentle massage with guided relaxation script just prior to the child trying to fall asleep. The child will also wear a watch-like activity monitor for the 2 week period throughout the day and night to measure changes in sleep and activity patterns. Caregivers will complete daily diary questions in the morning and evening reporting their child's emotions and sleep timing.
Locations(1)
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NCT07476937